If you’ve ever wanted to lead an alien invasion of Earth, XCOM: Enemy Unknown’s new multiplayer mode will let you command extraterrestrial ground forces against other players in turn-based, tactical battles.

Firaxis’ update to the classic X-Com: UFO Defense brings new innovations — including mission variety, the two-action system, and sticky-cover indicators — to the series while unfortunately leaving at least three others at the door.

Aliens are coming. Rather, XCOM: Enemy Unknown, a re-imagining of the acclaimed PC strategy title X-Com: UFO Defense, should be invading stores on Oct. 9, 2012. I had the opportunity to preview the game (which is also slated for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3) at a recent event that developer Firaxis hosted in Los Angeles. There, I learned how fans old and new can help protect the planet.

X-Com: UFO Defense, a strategy game from the early ’90s, is a sort of enigma. Although the original is revered as a masterstroke in design, every stab at a sequel or spiritual successor has fallen short. What about the X-Com formula is so elusive?
When I spoke with Jake Solomon, lead designer for Firaxis Games’ XCOM: Enemy Unknown (a “reimagining” of the original), that question weighed heavily on my mind.